Intelligent Music Project’s My Kind O’ Lovin’ is the second offering from composer and producer Dr. Milen Vrabevski. The man’s uplifting lyric and ‘intelligence’ has helped him in gathering top-notch musicians for another concept album he has produced and written. This time around, drum legend Simon Phillips, Toto’s Joseph Williams and ex-Uriah Heepster John Lawton are on board for a lush, well-played sequel.
The title track starts us off with plucky acoustic, clean swirling lead lines and duet harmonies between Lawton and Williams. “Friends” follows, showcasing some great vocals, a nice fat bass line, and Phillips’ snappy playing, Even though some of the cringe-worthy lyrics are bit over the top, a song like “Happiness” moves with a semi bossa nova vibe and great harmonies from Williams and Lawton again.
One of the better tracks is “Things We Can’t Do,” lifted up by piano and strings with Lawton giving one of his best vocal performances, supported by some meaningful lyrics. “Time To Move Along” is the hottest mover here, with a simple bass, Phillips popping his snare, and some big distorted guitars. “Love Song” mines power ballad territory with a big guitar lead and Lawton at the forefront. “Step In Learnin’” has a Santana-like vibe and subtle piano runs that lift it up from just simple MOR.
“Conclusion” concludes a song that sees the full use of Phillips and a composition the good Dr. Vrabevski should be proud of. There’s lots of changes with piano and organ, driving bass and eastern-flavored strings on the mid-section. Given the players, the music could not have sounded any more stellar than it does. I think Dr. Vrabevski mines the same lyrical concepts across all 13 songs, which restricts the album’s potential. My Kind O’ Lovin’ is a decent enough musical read, despite its banal lyrical expression.
~ Ralph Greco, Jr.
